The local towns of Manjimup, Pemberton, Northcliffe and Walpole are small, deferring to the natural surrounds that make the Southern Forests particularly special. And there is the extraordinary fresh food, complimented by being the biggest truffle producing region in the Southern hemisphere. Relax and enjoy the serenity.
The Southern Forest is not surprisingly, all about the products of nature: trees, food and wine. Summer is a gorgeous time to visit, particularly to escape the heat in Perth. Spring wildflowers and autumn colours entice photographers, and both seasons have mild days and cool nights. Winter is perfect for outdoor pursuits or staying warm by the fire. Accommodation often books out in school holidays, and for June's Truffle Kerfuffle event.
Framed by majestic karri forests, with their rich, red fertile soil, and boasting extraordinary produce, and the Southern Forests region has garnered a reputation as a premium wine and food destination. Pemberton alone boasts over 50 local vineyards and cellar doors for you to explore.
Take advantage of some of the 80 varieties of fruits and vegetables, fresh produce, truffles, marron and locally produced products by choosing self-catering accommodation options. Accommodation ranges from motels and cosy cottages, to luxury eco-chalets and campsites - both in town and in the national parks.
[gallery link="none" columns="1" size="full" ids="https://media.localista.com.au/2018/08/SouthernForests-About2.jpg|Mandalay Beach, Walpole"]
The tiny town of Walpole offers the perfect place to get away from the heat, crowds and frantic pace of everyday life. It is full of self-catering accommodation, which can give you a more authentic holiday experience.
National parks and forests make up 80% of the Manjimup Shire, so you can fully immerse yourself in nature, either with a canoe trip on the Warren River, or one of the walking trails such as Bibbulmun Track.
Take some time to drive out to either Gloucester National Park, with its beautiful Karri Forest, walking trails and climbing tree. Alternatively, you can visit D'Entrecasteaux National Park, just 20 minutes out of Pemberton. Three rivers flow into the park - the Warren, the Donnelly, and the Shannon - feeding several lakes, swamps and inlets before emptying out into the sea. The wild waters make for ideal surfing conditions, especially at the northerly tip of Black Point, a local hotspot.
The Southern Forest region really is all about nature, whether it be the tall trees, the delectable truffles or the award winning wine straight from the local vines and viticulturists.
Credit: Ian Woolcock